When your smile’s color seems off, it’s easy to blame the matter on poor hygiene. What else would make your grin look less than pearly white? However, the truth is that there are several types of tooth stains; each one has its own causes and potential fixes. You’ll need to know those types in detail to make your teeth look bright again. With that said, keep reading to learn about the kinds of tooth stains and how to remove them.
What are the Types of Tooth Stains?
Tooth stains generally come in three distinct types. In particular, these are the following:
Extrinsic Stains
Extrinsic tooth stains are those that sit on the surface of teeth. Per their name, they occur when dark particles from outside sources cover your smile’s enamel. These flecks typically come from food residue, drinks, tobacco products, and similar sources. For example, major sources of extrinsic tooth stains include coffee, wine, berries, cigarettes, and so on.
Intrinsic Stains
In contrast to extrinsic stains, intrinsic ones are those below a tooth’s surface. They develop when discoloring particles work through and gather beneath your enamel. Given their nature, they can be resistant to certain whitening products. Sources of intrinsic stains range from excess fluoride and medications to tooth trauma and decay.
Age-Related Stains
As you might’ve guessed, age-related stains stem from the aging process. They come about when the enamel on your teeth wears away over time, exposing the underlying dentin. Such stains can also worsen from extrinsic causes like dark-colored meals and tobacco. The discoloration even becomes glaring in old age, given that dentin itself can darken with time.
How Can You Get Rid of Them?
To treat every kind of tooth stain, dentists offer many great procedures. The most notable ones are:
- Teeth Whitening: With teeth whitening, a dentist uses bleaching gel to brighten up your tooth enamel. It’s a suitable fix for extrinsic stains and whitens your smile by six to eight shades.
- Dental Bonding: Direct bonding hides smile flaws with tooth-colored resin, so it works best for intrinsic or age-related stains. Once performed, its results will blend seamlessly with your grin.
- Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are thin layers of porcelain placed on the fronts of teeth. When added, they cover up extrinsic, intrinsic, and even age-related stains.
Now that you know the types of tooth stains, you can remove them properly. Just see your dental provider for any extra help you need!
About the Practice
Legacy Dentistry is based in Midlothian, TX. Led by Drs. Nguyen and Baird, our practice proudly offers comfy and comprehensive dental care. We make sure to tailor our preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments to your smile’s unique needs. That way, you can rest assured that your grin will get the quality help it truly deserves! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (972)-723-1148.